Jadeveon Clowney’s somewhat disappointing final season at South Carolina might have a whole new perspective to it now that it sounds like the defensive end played through a pretty serious injury.
Clowney underwent surgery this month to repair what was described as a sports hernia. He also had groin problems at his pro day, though he performed well despite the issues. Now we’re hearing that Clowney’s sports hernia injury dates back to the season.
Houston Chronicle reporter John McClain reported news of Clowney’s sports hernia injury via Twitter Thursday:
I just spoke with Gil Brandt at rookie symposium. Clowney told him today he played with sports hernia last season at South Carolina.
— John McClain (@McClain_on_NFL) June 26, 2014
Agent Bus Cook said Clowney thought he had a groin injury and played thru it. Thought bout sitting out pro day cause of it but was terrific.
— John McClain (@McClain_on_NFL) June 26, 2014
McClain also says Clowney is day-to-day in his recovery and that he might not be ready for the start of training camp.
Clowney’s work ethic was questioned by multiple people leading up to the draft, including Gamecocks coach Steve Spurrier, who described it as “OK.” Clowney faced more attention from offensive lines, was seen taking plays off, and only had three sacks last season. Maybe the groin problems had a lot to do with the lack of effort at times and dropoff in production.
